What is HAF?
We are delighted to share that the HAF programme funded by the Department for Education (DfE) has been extended for the next 3 years. The programme offers eligible pupils:
- 4 days in Spring (Easter holidays)
- 16 days in Summer holidays
- 4 days in Winter (Christmas holidays)
Approved Providers deliver a programme where children and young people can try new activities, have fun and learn new skills. They include:
- arts and crafts
- dance
- music
- cookery
- Outdoor experiences, farm experience.
- sports
- Football
- Family HAF Days
A healthy meal will be provided with every booked place.
To view a video from our last session in Spring, please see Holiday Activities and Food scheme for Southend-on-Sea
If your child is in Reception Class, Year 1 and Year 2 they are Universal Free School Meals. You must be in receipt of Benefits Related Free School Meals to attend the HAF club: Apply for free school meals: search result - GOV.UK
Our next HAF programme will be delivered for 4 days in the Christmas Holidays. If you want to be be updated on HAF Activity, send an email to HAF@southend.gov.uk to request to be added to our distribution list.
Southend Council and Eequ booking platform are working together to simplify the booking for our eligible families to book onto the programme. Eequ booking platform will automatically recognise your eligibility once a parent has created an account and entered their child's details. If your child is eligible, you will receive an email from your child's school from 19 November 2025. We will be updating the details of our HAF Providers who are delivering this Winter in October 2025. If you are not in reciept of benefits related Free School Meals. Your child must be referred for a funded place by your school or a professional working with the family. A completed referral form is required.
To view a video from our last session in Spring, please see Holiday Activities and Food scheme for Southend-on-Sea
View the HAF 2023-24 Southend Local Authority Annual Report
Important information about your HAF bookings
Do not book your child onto a HAF club when you are going on holidays or have made plans with families and friends. Other eligible children missed out on the opportunity to attend a free holiday club and receive a hot meal.
Southend on Sea City Council expects HAF providers to be fully inclusive and make rasonable adaptions to meet the needs of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Parents/carers need to share information about their child's needs with the HAF provider. This will include copies of the child's individual support plans / Education, Health Care Plans (EHCP) and any medicalcare plans that are at the school to confirm the level of support being requested.
Provider contact details can be found on the providers booking page. If you have any questions after contacting your chosen provider, please email HAF@southend.gov.uk
If you need more information check the frequently asked questions page or email: HAF@southend.gov.uk